The North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM), in partnership with the Wilson Fire/Rescue Services will host a live fire demonstration to show just how quickly lithium-ion batteries can catch fire if damaged, overheated, or improperly handled.
The event will highlight the 2025 Fire Prevention Week theme: “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” Fire officials will provide important safety tips to help families protect themselves from these increasingly common fire hazards.
One featured demonstration will simulate a real-life scenario where a lithium-ion battery—previously charged and accidentally dropped—was placed on a nightstand. Later, the battery went into thermal runaway and started a fire. The demonstration will recreate this dangerous chain reaction in a safe, controlled setting.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Wilson Fire/Rescue Services | 800 Pine Street, Wilson
Fire Prevention Week (October 5–11, 2025) is dedicated to raising awareness about fire hazards and promoting life-saving safety practices. Lithium-ion batteries power everyday items—phones, toys, power tools, e-bikes, and more—but when misused or damaged, they can ignite without warning.
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Tips:
- Only purchase batteries from reputable sources and ensure they are listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
- Do not overcharge—unplug once a battery is fully charged.
- Use only the manufacturer-recommended charger for your device.
- Stop using devices if the battery shows damage: unusual odor, heat, popping sounds, swelling, or discoloration.
- Never toss lithium-ion batteries in the trash or recycling bin—use a designated collection site.